What is a hirsel?

Situated in peaceful farmland with countryside views and far from the road, the Hirsel Kennels are licensed by Highland Council and insured by animal specialists, Cliverton. Designed with great care, and purpose built to the highest specifications, this luxury facility offers fully secure boarding kennels each of which have underfloor heating and are finished to an exceptionally high standard. The business is deliberately sized to ensure that all the dogs receive my personal attention, giving you peace of mind that your dog is receiving the highest quality care and attentiveness while you are away.

There are 10 dog kennel spaces ranging in size from one dog to four dog capacity. Each kennel has an indoor sleeping area with underfloor heating. There is an outdoor run for each kennel which is partially roofed giving the dogs the option of lying in the sun or shade when outside. Raised beds in this area allow the dogs to relax in comfort while enjoying the fresh air. The kennel building makes extensive use of glass doors and windows to achieve a light and airy ambience which, complemented by high quality bespoke flooring throughout, deliberately avoids the “institutional” look. There is also music for the dogs to enjoy. Research has shown that this has a positive effect on reducing anxiety and stress for dogs in kennels.

Adjacent to the kennels are a high-fenced play area and a long track with a wooded area where the dogs can be exercised. The entire complex has been designed for the complete security and safety of the dogs.  State of the art CCTV monitors and protects the premises 24/7. 

The Hirsel Kennels are built to a very high specification to be as eco-friendly as possible with low energy consumption and a small carbon footprint. Combining energy efficiency and sustainability the kennels have Scottish larch cladding and insulation manufactured from natural raw materials ensuring a high level of indoor air quality. 

Invented in Norway and made in Germany, the state-of-the-art floor system is slip resistant, hard wearing and has coved skirting that is seamless with the floor giving a hi-tech hygienic finish requiring less water and energy for cleaning helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It also provides a surface that makes it very difficult for bacteria and viruses to thrive and ensures that no chemical residues or powerful smells will come into contact with your dog. 

The walls are clad with Solway Recycling Stokbord which is manufactured in Scotland from 100% recycled agricultural plastic collected from UK farms. It is non-absorbent, non-toxic and chew resistant. 

Our deep-pile, ultra-soft bedding is made in England from recycled plastic bottles and is used by vets and kennels throughout Europe. It is non-irritant and non-allergenic keeping your dog warm and comfortable.

Even the kennel numbers are made in the UK from recycled coffee cups and plant pots!

Following a lifetime of working with dogs, I have always had my own dogs which currently range from a puppy to my oldest dog who is 16. I have always loved dogs; they can sense this and are comfortable around me. People who see me with my own dogs can see the genuine love and respect between us and can see how happy my dogs are. Friends who have entrusted their dogs to my care can see how much time is invested in getting to know their dog and giving it the attention that it needs. Nothing makes me happier than seeing a dog arriving at The Hirsel excited with tail wagging, desperate to get out of the car and see me again. My love for dogs inspired me to start my own kennels and ensures that I approach every day with passion and enthusiasm for all the dogs in my care. 

The dogs are let out at least four times a day for exercise, free running and play, always under my supervision. With your permission your dog can socialise and play with other dogs safely and securely in the play area next to the kennel building. They can run freely on the secure walking track which incorporates a wooded area for exploring. Older or more timid dogs can be given individual care or relax in peace in their kennel or run which has an outside bed and calming views over the fields.

My number one priority is to spend as much of my day as possible with the dogs ensuring that every dog is given the attention it needs. A couch in the kennels allows me to sit peacefully with your dog if it needs quiet time or your dog can join in and have fun playing with me and some other dogs if you have given permission. The dogs receive my attention for most of the day.

If your dog gets muddy after exercise, there is a custom-built wet room with shower where I can wash it, and afterwards it can be swaddled in The Hirsel’s signature red monogrammed Ruff and Tumble drying coat and relax in its cosy heated kennel. 

I have spared no expense to create a luxury kennels for your dog and my mission is to make your dog’s stay with me a wonderful experience. I have undertaken to make myself and my business as professional as possible, being certified in animal first aid, fully insured and compliant with all legislation.

Welcome to The Hirsel Kennels!

The practical and stylish Ruff and Tumble drying coats are essential. All of my dogs have their own one.

I have coats in all sizes at the kennels. Why not make an appointment to come in with your dog so you can see them and try them on your dog to get the perfect fit? Get the special Hirsel code while you are here for 20% off all Ruff and Tumble merchandise.

Phone or text me on 0790 2798487. If I am busy with the dogs, I will call you back when I can.

The Hirsel Kennels are located on the road to Greenland. This road branches off the B876 Castletown to Wick road at the sign “Greenland” just outside Castletown. 

The Hirsel Kennels can also be accessed from the Castletown to Dunnet road. Turn first right after leaving Castletown, pass Thurdistoft Farm and at the T-junction make a left turn. The Hirsel Kennels sign is on your right after passing the trees. Please note that CCTV covers all of the premises including the access road.

The Hirsel Kennels is accessed via a privately-owned farm track with an uneven surface, loose chippings, and sometimes loose livestock in the field. Use of this road is at your own risk. If livestock is loose, keep your speed down, stay in your car and blow the horn if they are in the way.

Q. I made a booking, but my dates have changed. Can I shorten / extend the stay / rebook for different dates?

If the kennels are full it may not be possible to rebook or extend the stay. If this happens please get in touch as soon as possible to discuss this with me. You can always shorten a stay, but you will be charged for the full booking.

Q. I made a booking, but I have to cancel it.

Please let me know as soon as you can. If you cancel more than two weeks in advance there will be a full refund. However, 50% of the booking charge is non-refundable for late cancellations (within two weeks) and no shows will not receive any refund.

Q. I need to drop off my dog before 0930. Is this possible?

Only by arrangement. If it is not possible you will have to book an extra day and bring in your dog the day before. Contact me to discuss the options.

Q. I need to drop off my dog late. Is this possible?

It might be possible to drop off your dog later in the evening. Please contact me to discuss.

Q. I want to pick up my dog early. Is this possible?

It might be possible to collect your dog early in the morning. Please contact me to discuss. 

Q. I want to pick up my dog late. Is this possible?

The kennels are booked on a daily basis with a few hours in the middle of the day for cleaning before the next dog arrives. If you cannot collect your dog between 0930 and 1030 you will have to pay for an extra day. You can contact me to arrange a pick up time. Late collection without prior arrangement is £50 per dog per day.

Q. Can I see where my dog will be staying on arrival?

If you wish to view the kennels in advance, please contact me to arrange this. It is less disruptive for the other dogs to drop off your dog in reception and I will take it into the kennels when you leave. 

Q. Are you open over the Christmas period?

I am open to dogs over the Christmas holidays. On Christmas Day I am closed for people so you cannot drop off or collect your dog on that day.

Q. Do you charge more over holidays?

No.

Q. Can a friend or relative collect my dog for me? 

I would need to be notified if anyone other than you will be collecting your pet, otherwise I will not release them. I will need permission from you and will need to see ID from the person collecting the dog.

Q. Do you offer a collection and return service? 

No. 

Q. My dog isn't vaccinated. Can it still board?

No. I cannot accept unvaccinated dogs or dogs whose boosters are overdue. This is a condition of the Highland Council Licence and is not flexible under any circumstances. 

Q. What about Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a virus which causes your dog to cough and sneeze and it can cause complications, sometimes fatal, for puppies and older dogs. It is a highly contagious disease which does not just happen in kennels, any places where your dog comes into contact with other dogs have a potential risk.  Highland Council do not insist on dogs being vaccinated for kennel cough before staying in kennels. The Hirsel will refuse access to any dog who is suspected of having kennel cough, but it is the owner who is responsible for protecting their dog and deciding whether or not they wish the dog to have this vaccination. The vaccine is squirted up the dog’s nose, not something they enjoy, but it lasts for one year. Many people choose to do this at the same time as their dog’s annual vaccinations as they also last for one year. 

There must be a period of 21 days minimum between vaccination and entry to The Hirsel. 

The Blue Cross website has more information.

Q. Does my dog need to be treated for fleas, ticks and worms?

Yes, this is for public and staff Health and Safety.

Q. My dog is on medication. Will you give it to him whilst boarding?

Yes. Please give me full details of your dog’s condition and medication along with any other special instructions and I will follow your instructions. Please bear in mind that pre-existing medical conditions are not covered by the kennels insurance scheme. Please make sure you bring enough for the length of the stay plus some extra for unforeseen circumstances.

Q. My dog is old. Can he still board?

Yes, of course. Please be sure to let me know of any special requirements or age-related problems. 

Q. My dog is really nervous - how will you deal with this?

The key to minimising stress is to make sure that the dog feels safe and secure. This is achieved by spending time with the dog and building up trust. I have a quiet area with a couch for bonding and cuddling, helping the dog to settle and remain calm. If your dog is nervous please let me know when booking so I can plan an individual attention programme for them.

Q. Do you board puppies?

Provided they have been fully vaccinated for 30 days, yes. The minimum age limit for boarding puppies is 12 weeks.

Q. Do you accept bitches in season?

No, it is too disruptive for the other dogs.

Q. My dog has a special raw food diet – is this OK?

No, I cannot have raw food in the kennels.

Q. My dog has never boarded in kennels before. Will it be ok? 

Yes. If you would like to introduce your dog to the kennels before their stay, please contact me to make an arrangement. 

Q. Last time my dog stayed in kennels it lost weight. Is this normal?

Yes. The dogs are in a different environment where they may be more active than normal or get different exercise from what they would at home. If your dog has limitations with health and length of walks please let me know when making your booking. 

Q. Last time my dog stayed in kennels it seemed very tired when it got home. Is this normal?

Yes. The dogs will have a different routine from what they have at home so their sleep pattern will have been different in the kennels.

Q. Can I bring my dog’s own bed or his toys?

Yes but this is at your own risk. The dog might chew things as they are in a different environment from home. Suitable bedding and food and water bowls are provided in the kennels, but some people feel that the dog having their own bed/blanket/toys with them settles them better. Some people also bring an old item of clothing that smells of them. If your dog chews anything you put in with them, the Hirsel kennels is not responsible. 

Q. I have other questions not covered here. 

If your question is not answered here please contact me and I will reply when I can.